Gabriella Catalfano
June 2018
Gabriella
Catalfano
,
RN
Surgical Oncology
UPMC Shadyside
Pittsburgh
,
PA
United States

 

 

 

When I came to UPMC facility at Shadyside I was honestly scared and nervous because I knew I'd have to have surgery and with my history of opioid abuse I knew it was going to be a painful and tough recovery. I was also worried that I'd be treated differently because of all that status. While I was treated very professionally by all staff there was one nurse who epitomizes UPMC's motto (Your care. Our commitment) as well as all of the core values. Dignity and Respect, Quality and Safety, Caring and Listening, Responsibility and Integrity. Gabby's focus on my individual patient care at times made me feel as if I was her only patient although I knew she was very busy. She always took time the time to treat my needs, listen to my requests, problems, questions, and even a story or two. She explained in detail medications and changes to my care plan as well as the healing process. She was extremely kind, caring, and compassionate and totally made a difference in not only my morale but also my general outlook for leaving the hospital mentally strong, truly rested, and as healed and informed as possible as it pertains to my general well-being as well as my fight to be clean and sober from opiates. She treated me not only as a patient under her care but also as a human with respect and dignity. My fear of being treated differently because of my drug abuse history was totally blown away by this professional and knowledgeable employee. Gabby made a difference during the 5 days I've been here as well as in my healing process both mentally and physically. She is a leader and an example of how nurses should be.